Day 7 – Dedicate One Hour to Learning (Switched with Day 8)

Originally, today’s challenge was to participate in an artistic activity—but life, learning curves, and logistics had other plans. I had an art project in mind, one that I’ve been excited to create for my granddaughter, but after diving into it, I realized it needed a couple of hours of research and preparation first. So I decided to switch Day 7 and Day 8. (Mental health bonus lesson: Flexibility is your friend.)

At first, I considered this a fail. But then I reminded myself that this challenge isn’t about following a rigid order—it’s about completing all 31 days in ways that support mental wellness. It’s about showing up, making it meaningful, and sometimes rolling with the unexpected.

So, what did I learn?

I dedicated my time to learning how to make a boho-style curtain to create a separation between my granddaughter’s bedroom and her en suite bathroom, which currently has no door. I found a beautiful design that matches my daughter’s boho aesthetic while still being fun, colorful, and timeless enough for my granddaughter to enjoy for years to come.

I spent time on YouTube and Pinterest researching different styles, color schemes, rod options, and design ideas to make it both functional and decorative. While my granddaughter won’t care about the rod right now, future her just might. 😉

Why Learning is Good for Mental Health

Engaging in learning, especially something creative or purpose-driven, has been shown to have real mental health benefits. Studies have found that:

• Learning promotes neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections—this keeps our minds agile and adaptive.

• It reduces stress and anxiety by engaging our attention and redirecting focus away from intrusive or negative thoughts.

• It boosts confidence and self-esteem, especially when the learning is tied to goals or values that matter to us.

• It fosters a sense of purpose, which is crucial to emotional wellbeing, especially when what we learn is used to help others.

In my case, the learning wasn’t just mental—it was emotional. I found joy in discovering something new, peace in the process, and a deep sense of purpose knowing that I was creating something useful and beautiful for someone I love. I wasn’t bored. I wasn’t overwhelmed. I was creatively engaged and mentally energized.

So today, the plan is to turn yesterday’s learning into art—and I’m looking forward to getting hands-on with it.